"KICK" Start to Early Literacy

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SUPPORTING EARLY LITERACY

United Way of Hernando County's Kickball Tournament's purpose is to support early literacy and continue to provide Hernando preschool children free books to help them grow their own little library and prepare them for kindergarten. All proceeds from this the "KICK" Start to Early Literacy Kickball Tournament will benefit United Way’s Dolly Parton Imagination Library (DPIL) program, currently providing over 1,100 Hernando children with a free book every month from birth to age of five. The books are mailed directly to enrolled children regardless of their family’s economic status.


Kickball Player

2025 Team Line-Up & INSPIRED to READ Themes to-date: 

  1. Tampa General Hospital - "Ninja Turtles"
  2. Tax Collector Office - "DC Comics"
  3. Timber Pines

 


Kickball Coach

2025 Local Celebrity Coaches:

  1. Doug Chorvat, Hernando County Clerk of Circuit Court Comptroller
  2. Paul Hasenmeier, Hernando County Fire Rescue Fire Chief
  3. Denise LaVancher, Hernando County Supervisor of Elections
  4. Erin Thomas, Hernando County Emergency Management Interim Director
  5. Dr. Amy Anderson, Pasco-Hernando State College Spring Hill Campus Provost

 


Food Trucks:

kona ice     Brain Freeze

Entertainment:        

TBA!

Trucks: 

TBA!

 


Individual and Business Sponsorships are available for anyone interested in investing in a child’s future. Your donation will enroll children onto the Dolly Parton Imagination Library program where free books will be mailed directly to their homes every month from birth to age 5.

Business Sponsorships:                                                                                 2025kickball

Get your business involved and make a difference in the lives of thousands of youth in Hernando.

 

Individual Scholarships:

Questions? Please contact the United Way office 352-688-2026 or email Justine at impact@unitedwayhernando.org

TGH

OTHER HOSPITALS PRACTICE MEDICINE. WE DEFINE IT.

Tampa General Hospital is a private not-for-profit hospital and one of the most comprehensive medical facilities in West Central Florida serving a dozen counties with a population in excess of 4 million. As one of the largest hospitals in Florida, Tampa General is licensed for 981 beds, and with approximately 15,000 team members and providers, is one of the region’s largest employers.

Consistently recognized for world-class care, Tampa General Hospital is ranked as the #1 hospital in Tampa Bay by U.S. News & World Report for 2024-25 and is nationally ranked as among the top 50 hospitals in the nation in eight specialties. Additionally, Tampa General was ranked as “high performing,” or among the top 10% of hospitals in the nation, in five more specialties along with 12 procedures and conditions.

WHO WE ARE

As the region’s only academic health system and leading safety net hospital, Tampa General is committed to providing area residents with excellent and compassionate health care ranging from the simplest to the most complex medical services.

SHARED PURPOSE STATEMENT

We heal. We teach. We innovate. Care for everyone. Every day.

VISION STATEMENT

TGH will be the safest and most innovative academic health system in America.

POWER OF ACADEMIC MEDICINE

TGH partners with the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine to pioneer breakthrough treatments, conduct game-changing clinical research and train the next generation of healthcare professionals.

TGH is the region's first and largest teaching hospital, having been affiliated with the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine since the school was created in the early 1970s. As the primary teaching hospital for the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine, more than 700 residents and fellows are assigned to TGH for specialty training in areas ranging from general internal medicine to neurosurgery. In addition, USF medical students, nurses and physical therapy students all receive part of their training at Tampa General. Faculty of the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine admit and care for patients at TGH, as do private-practice physicians, many of whom also serve as adjunct clinical faculty.

As the region's first and only Level I Trauma Center, first and largest teaching hospital, and home of the first successful heart transplant in the state, we deliver world-class care you can't get anywhere else in Tampa Bay.

With five medical helicopters** transporting critically injured or ill patients from 23 surrounding counties to the ONLY Level I Trauma Center in the region, and one of two ABA-verified Adult & Pediatric burn centers in Florida, our care is second to none.

We are one of the top organ transplant centers in the country, having performed more than 13,000 adult solid organ transplants, including the state’s first successful heart transplant in 1985.

TGH is a nationally designated comprehensive stroke center, and our 32-bed Neuroscience Intensive Care Unit is the largest on the west coast of Florida. Other outstanding centers include internal medicine, cardiovascular, orthopedic, high risk and normal obstetrics, urology, ENT, endocrinology, and the Muma Children's Hospital at TGH, which features a nine-bed pediatric intensive care unit and one of just three outpatient pediatric dialysis units in the state.

Learn more

growfinancial

 

Products To Suit Every Need. Whether you’re saving up for your next adventure or just managing day-to-day expenses, Grow is here to help. From everyday banking to financial literacy education, we make sure you find the right product or service for where you are in life. It’s one way we put people before profit.

Piggy bank iconSave More With Grow. Our various savings accounts keep you in charge of your money, no matter how you want to watch it thrive.

Car iconThe Open Road Is Calling. Find an auto loan that’s the best fit for you, whether you’re buying new or used.

Money iconChecking Done Your Way. From getting rewarded for shopping to checking without the checks, our checking accounts are tailored to your spending needs.

Home iconHelping You Set Down Roots. Find your way home with an online estimate of your mortgage loan payment.

Learn more

carter foreman

Trusted name. Exceptional service. Here for all your legal needs.

At Carter Foreman PLLC, we have evolved to meet our clients’ needs over three decades. Today, we are a full-service
law firm ready to assist you and your family with any legal matter.

Florida’s Preeminent Full-Service Law Firm

Real Estate Law    Family Law Personal Injury Estate Planning      Business & Commercial Law               Criminal Defense

Real Estate Law             Family Law             Personal Injury    Estate Planning     Business & Commercial Law        Criminal Defense

 

Your Allies For Life

Chances are you will need an attorney at several points in your life. And while legal issues don’t occur all at once, they are often interrelated. Our team at Carter Foreman PLLC understands how legal matters can intersect and affect one another. For example, big life events such as a real estate purchase or a divorce may prompt important modifications to your estate plan. A new business venture might require legal contracts as well as commercial property transactions. Your legal needs may change, but your relationship with us won’t. Our trusted team of attorneys will be available to answer your questions and guide you to an efficient resolution, each and every time.

Focused. Driven. Accomplished.

Each of our attorneys brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in select legal areas. We offer two attorneys who are board-certified by The Florida Bar in real estate law. Our lawyers are highly accomplished in both transactional law and litigation. From estate planning and probate to commercial and business matters, family law and personal injury claims, we’ll pair you with the right attorney at the right time. Our similar goals, approach and dedication to our work have resulted in a family-like atmosphere where our clients feel confident and comfortable.

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oakhill hospital

Advanced healthcare services in Brooksville, Florida

HCA Florida Oak Hill Hospital, our 350-bed facility, has been providing high-quality healthcare to Hernando and Citrus counties since 1984. We offer a wide range of services including cardiology, labor and delivery and NICU, orthopedic and spine, oncology, emergency, and dedicated emergency and inpatient pediatric care. Our outpatient services include wound care and hyperbaric therapy, rehabilitation, laboratory, and imaging. We provide the services you need to receive your care close to home.
 

Why people choose us

Our hospital is committed to offering the Brooksville and Spring Hill communities advanced healthcare services with a compassionate, patient-focused approach.

HCA Florida Oak Hill Hospital

                               We live here and work here.

        HCAH_H_Homepage_WhyUsOption1.jpg

                   We provide high-quality care.                                                 We're part of the Brooksville community.

HCAH_H_Homepage_WhyUsOption2.jpg      HCAH_H_Homepage_WhyUsOption3.jpg

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familychiro

Welcome to Family Chiropractic Center for Wellness, your chiropractor in Spring Hill, Hudson, Homosassa, and Brooksville. Our chiropractors provide a full range of health and wellness treatments in six convenient locations. Throughout our website you can explore our chiropractic and massage services and learn more about the benefits and wellness that comes from regular chiropractic treatments. 
 

We use only the best in chiropractic equipment and keep up with the latest innovations in holistic care to provide our patients with a full range of complementary health and wellness treatments. When you choose Family Chiropractic, you can rest assured that you will receive the finest quality care from chiropractic staff who genuinely care for your health and well-being.

We are pleased to offer Wellness & Medical Care

We are honored to provide healing, hope, and health for your entire family through Aligned Integrative Medicine (AIM).

We offer a wide variety of services to suit your wellness and healthcare needs and are proud to provide quality primary care services to patients of all ages suffering from various conditions, illnesses, and/or medical concerns. 

Medical CarePhysical RehabilitationPRP TherapyWellness

Primary Medical Care   Physical Rehabilitation   Activated PRP Therapy   Whole-Body Wellness

 

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micro matic

THE HIGH STANDARDS
YOU CAN EXPECT

Micro Matic is dedicated to providing world-class beverage dispensing equipment and solutions, focusing on unparalleled product quality and testing, on-time delivery, and world-class customer service.

Our commitment to quality is infused into every aspect of our business. We strive for excellence in product performance, value our employees and service partners, and promote causes that contribute to our communities' well-being.

 

WE NEVER SETTLE FOR LESS

QUALITY WITHOUT COMPROMISE

From our commitment to manufacturing in the USA to our rigorous testing standards and comprehensive warranties, our focus is on bringing our customers the best. Quality is instilled in every part and piece we produce and ship. In an age where shortcuts are common, we commit our time and resources to providing you with the best.

 

WE START WITH YOU

PEOPLE FIRST

People do business with the people they trust. Our continued strength relies on our valued relationships with our customers and partners. That's why Micro Matic has dedicated itself to delivering exceptional products with industry-best service at every engagement, from sales and customer support to project management and training.

 

 

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tropic shores realty

Discover Your Perfect Florida Home

Your complete source of Florida homes for sale & Florida real estate! Led by the dedicated partnership of Jim & Linda Tacy, Tropic Shores Realty is deeply rooted in the Hernando community and is fully committed to assisting you with all your property sales, rentals, titles, and escrow needs. Tropic Shores Realty and their extensive team of just under 300 realtors in Hernando, Citrus, and surrounding areas who are committed to make your satisfaction and successful property sale their #1 priority! With their cutting-edge home marketing strategies, they guarantee a swift sale at the best possible price.

All Your Title and Closing Needs

With a legacy dating back to 2005, Tropic Title Services has been a trusted name in serving Hernando County, consistently delivering smooth closings and satisfied customers. Tropic title Services provides comprehensive services including title, escrow, and real estate closings, ensuring a seamless experience from start to finish. Their dedicated team of closing specialists are here to assist YOU withe very aspect of your real estate closing, relieving you of any hassle and simplifying your life. 

 

If you are in the market to buy or sell, please keep Tropic Shores Realty in mind to smoothly handle your real estate transaction!

"Family is important to us and we welcome all with open arms"

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Kona ice

Looking to add some icy excitement to your next event? With vibrant flavors that give a refreshing twist, book Kona Ice now and get ready to beat the heat in style. Don’t miss out on the ultimate summer experience!

Kona Ice is more than just a business; we are deeply rooted in the community. We partner with local schools, sports organizations, and other non-profits all over the country. We can help you reach your fundraising goals while serving up smiles with a fun and sweet Kona Ice experience.

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Previous Kickball Champions & Their Impact
  • 2016: "Just Kickin' It" from Publix at Brooksville Square

  • 2017: "Just Kickin' It" from Publix at Brooksville Square

  • 2018: "WRECing Crew" from Withlacoochee River Electric Cooperative, Inc.

  • 2019: "WRECing Crew" from Withlacoochee River Electric Cooperative, Inc.

  • 2020: "Brooksville Bombers" from Publix at Brooksville Square & Celebrity Coach Jeff Rogers

  • 2021: "WRECing Crew" from Withlacoochee River Electric Cooperative, Inc. & Celebrity Coach Jeff Rogers

  • 2022: "Kicking Balls & Taking Listings" from 54 Realty & Celebrity Coach April Johnson-Spence

  • 2023: "Tangerine Dream Team" from Downtown Athletics & Celebrity Coach Christa Tanner

  • 2024: "Barrette Knights" from Barrette Outdoor Living & Celebrity Coach Joel Fritton

 

MEDIA RELEASE
April 12, 2024

 

“Barrette Knights” Crowned 2024 Kickball Champs
United Way of Hernando County raises over 889 1-Year Scholarships, equivalent to 10,668 books, towards Early Literacy at Kickball Tournament

Spring Hill, FL – United Way of Hernando County’s 9th Annual “KICK” Start to Early Literacy Kickball Tournament was on Saturday, April 6, 2024 at Anderson Snow Park - 1360 Anderson Snow Rd, Spring Hill, FL 34609. This tournament was proudly presented by United Way’s “Grand Slam Champion” Sponsor Tampa General Hospital Spring Hill/Brooksville. Each year, 16 Kickball Teams compete in this single elimination tournament for a chance to win the Ultimate Traveling Trophy and have the honor of being crowned “Champions of Early Literacy.” Teams are exclusively invited to participate and represent company partners of United Way in Hernando that align themselves with supporting local initiatives.

The Kickball Tournament's purpose is to support early literacy and continue to provide Hernando preschool children free books to help them grow their own little library and
prepare them for kindergarten. Thanks to supporters of United Way’s "KICK" Start to Early Literacy Kickball Tournament, we were able to raise over 889 1-year scholarships, which
is equivalent to 10,668 books! All proceeds benefit
United Way’s Dolly Parton Imagination Library program, currently providing over 1,050 Hernando children with a free book every
month from birth to age of five. The books are mailed directly to enrolled children regardless of their family’s economic status.

After a long afternoon of local Hernando businesses vying for the Ultimate Traveling Trophy, the final matchup came down between Downtown Athletics “Tangerine Dream Team” with Celebrity Coach Christa Tanner and Barrette Outdoor Living’s “Barrette Knights” with Celebrity Coach Joel Fritton. It was a close and intense game, but in the end Barrette Outdoor Living’s “Barrette Knights” were crowned the victors and the 2024 Kickball Champions with a score of 1-0.

Thank you to the other 14 participating teams and their accompanying “Celebrity Coaches” who competed in this year’s event:

  • Dr. Brian Dahmer coaching Tampa General Hospital’s team, “One Kick Wonders”

  • City of Brooksville Mayor Blake Bell coaching Coastal Engineering’s team, “Kicks & Giggles”

  • Attorney Brian Brijbag coaching Rivera’s Flooring, Kitchens, & More’s team, “Rivera’s Kickin’ Kitcheneers”

  • PHSC Provost Dr. Amy Anderson coaching Publix Super Market at Shoppes at Avalon's team, "Kevin's Kickers"

  • Hits 106 Marvelous Marvin coaching Publix Super Market at The Shoppes at Glen Lakes team, "Glen Lakers”

  • Hernando County Board of County Commissioner Brian Hawkins coaching Timber Pine’s team, “Hammer Jammers”

  • Hernando County Emergency Management Director Dave DeCarlo coaching HCA Florida Oak Hill Hospital’s team, “LifeSavers”

  • Hernando County Board of County Commissioner Jerry Campbell coaching Regions Bank’s team, “Balls of Fury”

  • Superintendent of Hernando Count Schools John Stratton coaching Hernando School’s team, "Saved By The Ball"

  • Hernando County Fire Chief & Public Safety Director Paul Hasenmeier coaching Withlacoochee River Electric Cooperative’s team "WRECking Crew"

  • Hernando County Clerk of Circuit Court & Comptroller Doug Chorvat Jr. coaching Clerk of Court’s team, “The Mighty Dougs”

  • Dr. Lauren Dedea from Dedea M.D. Family Medicine coaching Publix Super Market at Brooksville Square's team, "Brooksville Skillz"

  • Sheriff Al Nienhuis coaching Publix Super Market at Hernando West Plaza’s team, "187-WON”

  • Publix’s Brittany Montmarquet coaching Publix Super Market at Lakewood Plaza’s team, "Riki’s Rockets”

The following Celebrity Coaches were voted for a dip in the Dunk Tank by attendees, Brijbag Law’s Brian Brijbag (voted), Board of County Commissioner Jerry Campbell (voted), Family Chiropractic Center for Wellness’s Dr. Brian Dahmer (selected), and Hernando County Fire Chief Paul Hasenmeier (selected). This family fun day included music from PJ the DJ, a Bounce House, Foto Fun Booth, craft vendors, and a special performance of the National Anthem by Hernando’s very own talented singer, Snow Anna Mazourek.

This year’s final line-up for our Food Truck Rally included Spice Corner, Cali Street Tacos, The Ice Cream Barr, Brain Freeze Italian Ice, Love Corn Dogs, Murph Coffee Company! Home Run Hero Field Sponsors included HCA Florida Oak Hill Hospital, Carter Foreman, PLLC, Brijbag Law, and Kiwanis Club of Brooksville. Base Run Baller Sponsors included Micro Matic, Grow Financial, Family Chiropractic Center for Wellness, Comfort Control Specialists, and Allstate by Jason Aldrich. Publix is always recognized by United Way of Hernando County as an active Community Partner thanks to their ongoing level of support towards our mission. The Touch-a-Truck event featured the ARGO amphibious vehicle used by Hernando County Mosquito Control, Fire Rescue’s Ladder Truck, and first responder vehicles for children to enjoy.

Fans and supporters of the event also noticed over 30 cause-brand marketing yard signs from local “Double Play Sponsors” throughout the park that day. Our annual Mascot Fun Run was held on Field #3. The line-up included Smiley of Lifesouth Community Blood Center, Andy the Armadillo of Texas Roadhouse, WWHS Hornet, J.D. Floyd Dolphin, HHS Leopard, Tommy The T-Rex, Pikachu, Plato the Dinosaur of Publix Supermarkets, Carey The Cow, and Scoopie of Culvers. WWHS Hornet took home the gold for this year’s Mascot Fun Run Race!

United Way would also like to thank Hernando County Parks and Recreation, United Way of Hernando County volunteers, Board Members, and Kickball Planning Committee Members for generously donating their time, talents, and efforts to help make this event such a success. Thank you for always #LIVINGUNITED.

Visit www.UnitedWayHernando.org/Kickball for information on event entertainment, participants, and opportunities. For more ways to GIVE, ADVOCATE, or VOLUNTEER for our future events, contact Justine Peppe at Impact@UnitedWayHernando.org or call 352-688-2026.